Let's Get Your Bible Ready!   It is important to always double check what you're reading.   The Bible should be your primary source!

Having faith is hard when we have unanswered questions.  When we're going through difficult times but feel like God isn't listening.  When we can't see the rainbow because were still in the storm.  How do we have faith?  Is God listening?  What do I do now? 

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. - Proverbs 3:5-6

Pray continuously - 1 Thessalonians 5:17

Prayer is how we communicate with God.  A lot of times when we "pray" it's a very demanding form of communication.  Like He is a genie.  If you don't understand how the Lord wants us to pray, I suggest you read our study on "Understanding The Lord's Prayer".  It teaches us the words of Jesus and how we can communicate with our Father.  We can't expect to have a relationship with God, have Him answer and fix our problems, if we're not even properly communicating with Him!  So, take time in your day and pray.

• Let's take a few moments and have a conversation with the Lord.

Communication isn't just talking; it's also being able to listen.  God hears our cries and concerns, and He does respond to us.  Sometimes we just don't know how to hear His voice.

Imagine This, you're trying to have a conversation with someone, they're telling you everything that's wrong, and they expect you to answer every question and fix every problem.  But every time you go to answer a question and fix a problem, they walk away.  How are you supposed to help!

We do the same thing to God even if we don't realize it.  So, it's not that God can't or won't do something, it's not that He isn't listening, it's actually WE are not listening to Him!  Sometimes we expect God to do one thing when He has different plans for our lives, so we completely miss His voice. 

God speaks to us through His Word—the Bible—by guiding, comforting, and teaching us.  The Bible is God's primary way of communicating with us. In 2 Timothy 3:16, it tells us that "All Scripture is breathed out by God,". This makes the Bible more than just a book—it is God's voice speaking directly to us.  We can't hear God's voice if we're not reading the Bible. Reading the Bible is important because it helps us understand God's character, His will for our lives, and how to live in a way that pleases Him.

It's hard to hear God's voice when you've already decided what you want Him to say.

To answer before listening- that is a folly and a shame. - Proverbs 18:13

• In what ways have you experienced God's guidance in your life? Reflect on specific instances where you felt led by His voice.

When we are trying to hear God's voice, it isn't always going to come instantly after prayer.   Having patience while waiting for answers is always a difficult task.  We live in a very fast-paced society, almost every question we have can be Googled.  But not all question can be answered by man and computer.  Some things are only given to us by God.  He is a patient God.  A good God.  His timing isn't going to be the same as our timing.  It isn't because He is slow, or He can't do it in time. No!  It's because he is patient and preparing us to be able to accept His words and His method.  We just need to be slow and know that He is God.

The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness.  Instead, he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. - 2 Peter 3:9

Be still and know that I am God. - Psalm 46:10

• Consider a moment when God's answer to your prayer was delayed. How did you perceive His timing, and what insights did you gain about His patience and purpose?

Practical Steps Forward)

• Daily Devotion: Set aside time each day to read Scripture and pray, creating space to listen for God's voice.
• Journaling: Write down thoughts, prayers, and any impressions you believe are from God and find scripture that backs it. This can help clarify His guidance over time.
• Seek Counsel: Discuss your thoughts and experiences with trusted fellow believers to gain perspective and confirmation